Wildfire Smoke Carries Extra Risks for Older Adults

Wildfire smoke can pose greater health risks than pollution from traffic or power plants, especially for older adults with lung cancer or existing heart and lung disease. Two studies examined PM2.5, tiny particles that can move deep into the lungs and may affect the bloodstream and other organs.

One study found higher death rates among older adults with lung cancer after prolonged exposure to wildfire-related particles. Another found more hospitalizations among people with conditions such as asthma, COPD, high blood pressure, or heart failure. The findings also showed higher hospitalization risk among some racial and ethnic minority groups, metropolitan residents, and people living in communities facing greater economic hardship.

Researchers say wildfire smoke may be especially harmful because it can contain ultrafine particles, heavy metals from burned structures and vehicles, and other irritating substances. Smoke exposure can also arrive in intense bursts. Children, pregnant people, older adults, outdoor workers, and those with heart or lung conditions are among the groups most vulnerable. Experts recommend watching the air quality index, taking precautions above 151 for most people, and using an N95 or KN95 mask when outdoor exposure cannot be avoided. Pregnant people may need to change behavior at 101.